(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Managing your money is a team sport, and it’s important to have the right players in the right positions. Bree Shellito, Director of Financial Well-Being with Ent Credit Union, joined FOX21 Morning News on Thursday, August 7, to discuss how financial teamwork can be a game-changer.

Shellito said just like football, financial success isn’t a solo effort. Money is a team sport.

You wouldn’t expect a quarterback to win the Super Bowl without a team, and the same goes for your finances.

Having people in your corner helps you stay accountable, motivated, and focused on the goal line.

When it comes to your team, Shellito said you get to be the quarterback. “You’re the one calling the plays, you’re the one making the decisions, but if you have a partner that’s your co-captain,” said Shellito. “That’s somebody who needs to be involved in the decisions as well.”

A financial coach is like your head coach, helping with strategy and long-term goals.

Friends and family can be teammates or sometimes opponents, getting in the way of our goals.

Shelitto said one of the biggest financial stressors isn’t money itself, it’s the lack of communication about it. Talking openly about money goals, values, and plans helps reduce conflict and build trust.

In football, miscommunication leads to interceptions. In finances? It’s overdrafts, arguments, and awkward dinner conversations.

Communication is your best play.

Use “we” instead of “me.”

Try to approach money talks as a team, not opponents. Use “we” language: “How can we tackle this?” or “What’s important to us?” It shifts the conversation from blame to collaboration.

Use a shared scoreboard. Create a shared visual for your goals, whether it’s a whiteboard, an app, or even a sticky note countdown. Seeing progress together builds motivation and turns money into a team sport.

“The best thing is choosing the right time and tone,” said Shellito. She also said a financial coach can help facilitate those conversations as well as set goals and strategies to meet your financial goals.

A financial coach can help you create a plan, tackle debt, build savings, and stay focused — just like a great coach on the field.

The first step to success is a team huddle. “Come together. Have a conversation. Determine some goals,” said Shellito.

No team takes the field without a game plan, and no household should either.

Whether it’s a money conversation at home or a free coaching session at your credit union, the first step is gathering your team and making a game plan.

Ent offers free financial coaching to members and non-members. To learn more, visit their website above.